Moab mobile homes may have to make way for development

MOAB — The Moab City Council will consider whether to rezone some prime real estate and make way for new condominiums.

The six acres are currently a residential zone adjacent to two mobile-home parks. It is also the site where a resort wants to build time-share condos.

"The economics just won't let you keep a trailer park," said landowner Randy Day, who wants to sell the property to Wyndham Hotels and Resorts.

The Moab City Council is scheduled to vote on the zoning issue on Tuesday.

Either way, the future of the mobile-home parks isn't looking good. Moab's popularity as a recreation destination increases land values, leaving some families looking elsewhere for a home.

"Affordable housing in Moab is nonexistent," resident Keith Menz said. "We just want a place to move our trailer."

For many other families, moving the mobile home isn't even an option. Mobile homes built before 1976 are not allowed under federal law to be moved.

Moab doesn't have outlying towns like other vacation hot spots have, so low-wage workers who make up the tourism industry work force have few options. Mayor Dave Sakrison said the community outside of Arches National Park is isolated and affordable housing is limited.

"It's a huge challenge," Sakrison said. "We're really struggling with it."

Moab and the Housing Authority of Southeastern Utah are close to completing a study that will assess the area's housing needs.

City Councilwoman Sarah Bauman said Day's rezoning request is not a done deal, despite a recommendation from the Planning Commission.

"Affordable housing is on everyone's mind right now," Bauman said. "I don't want to see our work force pushed out."